This book is about exercise - what it is, how it affects the individual, how it is measured and most of all what benefits it brings. Beginning with an introduction to the history and biology of exercise, the authors review the interactions between exercise and specific diseases, such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, cancer and many more, before considering exercise in a wider health context.

The book covers:
- Current societal norms, as well as the social and economic costs of inactivity.
- Exercise for life - from starting young, to pregnancy, longevity and frailty.
- Complications of exercise.
- The intersections of behavioural psychology and exercise, such as encouragement and excuse making.

With comprehensive and clear explanations based on sound science, yet written in an approachable and accessible style, this book is a valuable resource for students of medicine, public health, physiotherapy, sports science, coaching and training.